Patents by Inventor Thomas W. Collins

Thomas W. Collins has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20200197600
    Abstract: Infusion systems, infusion devices, and related operating methods are provided. An exemplary infusion device includes a motor operable to deliver fluid to a body of a user, a first control module to enable input power for the motor and provide a dosage command for operating the motor, and a second control module coupled to the first control module to receive the dosage command and operate the motor using at least a portion of the input power based at least in part on the dosage command. One of the first control module and the second control module detects an anomalous condition, and in response, disables the input power to the motor, stores diagnostic information for the anomalous condition in its internal memory, and automatically resets thereafter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2020
    Publication date: June 25, 2020
    Inventors: Steve Chow, Alexander S. Campbell, Yongbo Wang, Thomas W. Collins, Linda I. Torres
  • Patent number: 10617816
    Abstract: Infusion systems, infusion devices, and related operating methods are provided. An exemplary infusion device includes a motor operable to deliver fluid to a body of a user, a first control module to enable input power for the motor and provide a dosage command for operating the motor, and a second control module coupled to the first control module to receive the dosage command and operate the motor using at least a portion of the input power based at least in part on the dosage command. One of the first control module and the second control module detects an anomalous condition, and in response, disables the input power to the motor, stores diagnostic information for the anomalous condition in its internal memory, and automatically resets thereafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Chow, Alexander S. Campbell, Yongbo Wang, Thomas W. Collins, Linda I. Torres
  • Publication number: 20180256813
    Abstract: Infusion systems, infusion devices, and related operating methods are provided. An exemplary infusion device includes a motor operable to deliver fluid to a body of a user, a first control module to enable input power for the motor and provide a dosage command for operating the motor, and a second control module coupled to the first control module to receive the dosage command and operate the motor using at least a portion of the input power based at least in part on the dosage command. One of the first control module and the second control module detects an anomalous condition, and in response, disables the input power to the motor, stores diagnostic information for the anomalous condition in its internal memory, and automatically resets thereafter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Steve Chow, Alexander S. Campbell, Yongbo Wang, Thomas W. Collins, Linda I. Torres
  • Patent number: 9999721
    Abstract: Infusion systems, infusion devices, and related operating methods are provided. An exemplary infusion device includes a motor operable to deliver fluid to a body of a user, a first control module to enable input power for the motor and provide a dosage command for operating the motor, and a second control module coupled to the first control module to receive the dosage command and operate the motor using at least a portion of the input power based at least in part on the dosage command. One of the first control module and the second control module detects an anomalous condition, and in response, disables the input power to the motor, stores diagnostic information for the anomalous condition in its internal memory, and automatically resets thereafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Chow, Alexander S. Campbell, Yongbo Wang, Thomas W. Collins, Linda I. Torres
  • Publication number: 20160346459
    Abstract: Infusion systems, infusion devices, and related operating methods are provided. An exemplary infusion device includes a motor operable to deliver fluid to a body of a user, a first control module to enable input power for the motor and provide a dosage command for operating the motor, and a second control module coupled to the first control module to receive the dosage command and operate the motor using at least a portion of the input power based at least in part on the dosage command. One of the first control module and the second control module detects an anomalous condition, and in response, disables the input power to the motor, stores diagnostic information for the anomalous condition in its internal memory, and automatically resets thereafter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Publication date: December 1, 2016
    Inventors: Steve Chow, Alexander S. Campbell, Yongbo Wang, Thomas W. Collins, Linda I. Torres
  • Patent number: 7318160
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for performing cryptographic tasks, that include key setup tasks and work data processing tasks. This method comprises the steps of processing the key data in a first cryptographic engine and processing the work data in a second cryptographic engine. The processing of the key data comprises the steps of receiving key data, processing the key data, and generating processed key data. The processing of the work data comprises the steps of receiving the processed key data, receiving work data, processing the work data, and outputting the processed work data. In this method of the invention, the first cryptographic engine performs its tasks independently of the second cryptographic engine. A method for allocating cryptographic engines in a cryptographic system is also disclosed comprising monitoring a queue of cryptographic tasks, monitoring activity levels of a first allocation of a plurality of cryptographic engines, and dynamically adjusting the first allocation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Dale W. Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga
  • Patent number: 7120248
    Abstract: A process is provided for searching in parallel for a plurality of prime number values simultaneously includes the steps of: randomly generating a plurality of k random odd numbers (wherein k is preferably more than 2, but could also be one or more) expressed as n0,0, n1,0, . . . n((k?1)),0, each number providing a prime number candidate; determining a plurality of y additional odd numbers based on each one of the randomly generated odd numbers n0,0, n1,0, . . .
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: W. Dale Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga, Ruth A. Wang
  • Patent number: 7093133
    Abstract: A method is provided for generating a group digital signature wherein each of a group of individuals may sign a message M to create a group digital signature S, wherein M corresponds to a number representative of a message, 0?M?n?1, n is a composite number formed from the product of a number k of distinct random prime factors p1·p2· . . . ·pk, k is an integer greater than 2, and S?Md(mod n). The method may include: performing a first partial digital signature subtask on a message M using a first individual private key to produce a first partial digital signature S1; performing at least a second partial digital signature subtask on the message M using a second individual private key to produce a second partial digital signature S2; and combining the partial digital signature results to produce a group digital signature S.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Dale W. Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga
  • Patent number: 7016494
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provides cryptographic parameters for use in cryptographic applications in response to requests therefor. The method includes the steps of: pre-computing one or more different types of sets of cryptographic parameters, each the type of set being adapted for use by an associated type of cryptographic application; securely storing the pre-computed sets of cryptographic parameters in a memory storage unit; receiving a request for a set of cryptographic parameters having specified characteristics for use in a particular cryptographic application; determining one of the sets of cryptographic parameters stored in the memory storage unit that has specified characteristics; accessing the determined set of cryptographic parameters from the memory storage unit; and providing the determined set of cryptographic parameters with minimal latency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: W. Dale Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga, Larry L. Hines
  • Publication number: 20030149883
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for performing cryptographic tasks, that include key setup tasks and work data processing tasks. This method comprises the steps of processing the key data in a first cryptographic engine and processing the work data in a second cryptographic engine. The processing of the key data comprises the steps of receiving key data, processing the key data, and generating processed key data. The processing of the work data comprises the steps of receiving the processed key data, receiving work data, processing the work data, and outputting the processed work data. In this method of the invention, the first cryptographic engine performs its tasks independently of the second cryptographic engine. A method for allocating cryptographic engines in a cryptographic system is also disclosed comprising monitoring a queue of cryptographic tasks, monitoring activity levels of a first allocation of a plurality of cryptographic engines, and dynamically adjusting the first allocation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Dale W. Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga
  • Publication number: 20030120931
    Abstract: A method is provided for generating a group digital signature wherein each of a group of individuals may sign a message M to create a group digital signature S, wherein M corresponds to a number representative of a message, 0≦M≦n−1, n is a composite number formed from the product of a number k of distinct random prime factors p1·p2· . . . ·pk, k is an integer greater than 2, and S≡Md(mod n). The method may include: performing a first partial digital signature subtask on a message M using a first individual private key to produce a first partial digital signature S1; performing at least a second partial digital signature subtask on the message M using a second individual private key to produce a second partial digital signature S2; and combining the partial digital signature results to produce a group digital signature S.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Dale W. Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga
  • Publication number: 20020186837
    Abstract: A process is provided for searching in parallel for a plurality of prime number values simultaneously includes the steps of: randomly generating a plurality of k random odd numbers (wherein k is preferably more than 2, but could also be one or more) expressed as n0, 0, n1, 0, . . . n((k−1)), 0, each number providing a prime number candidate; determining a plurality of y additional odd numbers based on each one of the randomly generated odd numbers n0, 0, n1, 0, . . .
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: W. Dale Hopkins, Thomas W. Collins, Steven W. Wierenga, Ruth A. Wang
  • Patent number: 4415987
    Abstract: A passive replicator for bubble devices receives a bubble from an input channel and splits that bubble into two bubbles which go into two separate output channels when a rotating magnetic field is applied. The bubble replicator is a single element which has at least three peripheral areas in spaced relation that are associated with different propagation channels. In preferred embodiments, an elongated bar is present in the propagation channels and it is positioned adjacent to and in spaced relation with a peripheral area of the replicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1983
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas W. Collins, Lung-jo Tao
  • Patent number: 4408149
    Abstract: An adaptive control system for improving the efficiency of an electric motor. Connected in series with the motor and across the voltage supply is an electronic bi-directional switch which may be triggered at differing times relative to the zero-crossing of the AC supply to thereby control the amount of time during each cycle that the motor is energized. The firing angle for the electronic switch is determined by an optimizing network which functions to introduce a relatively low frequency perturbation in the firing angle and means for sensing the effect of that change on the average power being drawn by the system during the period of the perturbation. If this small, periodic change in the firing angle of the electronic switch results in a decrease in average power consumption, the firing angle is adjusted in a direction which is determined to have precipitated the improvement. Alternatively, if the shift in firing angle occasioned by the minute perturbation resulted in a worsening of motor performance, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1983
    Assignee: Optimizer Control Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas W. Collins, Charles L. Croskey
  • Patent number: 4386417
    Abstract: A major/minor loop bubble memory system architecture includes a passive replicator in the major loop read channel which is connected by a first path to a mode switch-annihilator and a merge point in the major loop write channel and by a second path to an off-chip decision-making means and the merge point in the write channel. The decision-making means is positioned the same or fewer propagation steps than the mode switch-annihilator is from the replicator. The decision making means is activated to cause either the replicated data to pass through the mode switch-annihilator into the write channel or the replicated data to be annihilated in the mode switch-annihilator and the data from a generator to pass into the write channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1983
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas W. Collins, Michael G. Hurley
  • Patent number: 4261045
    Abstract: A magnetic bubble Y-bar corner for use at the end of a minor loop. The Y-bar corner includes a Y-bar corner element and a canted I-bar positioned between the Y-bar corner element and each of the two adjacent storage elements in the minor loop. The ends of the arm of the Y-bar corner element are positioned adjacent the apex portions of the canted I-bars. The distance between the ends of the arms of the Y-bar is larger than the distance between the opposing ends of the two canted I-bars. With this corner a bubble propagates in either direction along a path from a minor loop storage element to the end of the canted I-bar and then to the apex portion of the canted I-bar and from there across to the end of the arm of the Y-bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1981
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas W. Collins, Kay B. Mehta
  • Patent number: 4234850
    Abstract: An adaptive control circuit for use with a machine performance optimizing system for producing a control delay between a first event and the time at which a response to that event is to take place. The adaptive control circuit of this invention, when used with an internal combustion point closure signal and will advance or retard the generation of a spark plug firing signal for a period determined by the optimizing system's operating parameters, while still maintaining the desired dwell dictated by the engine manufacturer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1980
    Assignee: Optimizer Control Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas W. Collins
  • Patent number: 4175289
    Abstract: A magnetic bubble switch operates in a drive-to-transfer mode when a rotating magnetic field is applied. The switch has a magnetic element in the shape that defines the letter "Y" having two arms and a stem. The switch has at least one serration on the arm of the Y in the vicinity of the stem. The switch has a conductor which is positioned across the end of the stem of the Y. A magnetic element is positioned so as to form a gap with the stem of the Y.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1979
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas W. Collins
  • Patent number: 4156818
    Abstract: Operating circuitry for linear charge launching, non-destructive weighting and non-destructive charge sensing for Charge Coupled Devices (CCD) employs electronic integrating circuitry at the input and output node terminals of the CCD. Feedback circuitry within the integrating circuitry aids in linearizing the signals, in eliminating the non-linear capacitance effect of the depletion regions, and in freeing the design from device parameter variations such as electrode area and absolute values of threshold potential and thickness of insulating layer. The circuitry is adaptable to most conventional CCD and is readily made up of conventional resistance and capacitance elements, of conventional comparing circuits such as differential amplifying or signal repeating circuits, and of conventional summing circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1975
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1979
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas W. Collins, Karl R. Hense
  • Patent number: 4130863
    Abstract: A digital electronic control system for optimizing the performance of an energy consuming system wherein a given parameter, such as the air supply in a furnace, the spark setting in an internal combustion engine, or the pitch of a propeller in an aircraft is perturbated and the resulting effect on the machine or system performance is computed for producing a control signal which is then used to adjust the setting in a way which improves the performance. The process continues until an incremental change in setting no longer is accompanied by an improvement in the system's output, thus indicating operation at the optimum. The control apparatus of the present invention permits the selective introduction of desired bias values so that operation can be established off the optimum by a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1978
    Assignee: Optimizer Control Corp.
    Inventors: Paul H. Schweitzer, Thomas W. Collins